Current Status of Contrast Enhanced Mammography: A Comprehensive Review

Can Assoc Radiol J. 2022 Feb;73(1):141-156. doi: 10.1177/08465371211029047. Epub 2021 Sep 7.

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this article is to provide a detailed and updated review of the physics, techniques, indications, limitations, reporting, implementation and management of contrast enhanced mammography.

Background: Contrast enhanced mammography (CEM), is an emerging iodine-based modified dual energy mammography technique. In addition to having the same advantages as standard full-field digital mammography (FFDM), CEM provides information regarding tumor enhancement, relying on tumor angiogenesis, similar to dynamic contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI). This article reviews current literature on CEM and highlights considerations that are critical to the successful use of this modality.

Conclusion: Multiple studies point to the advantage of using CEM in the diagnostic setting of breast imaging, which approaches that of DCE-MRI.

Keywords: CEDM; CESM; breast; breast cancer; contrast enhanced mammography; mammography.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Breast / diagnostic imaging
  • Breast Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Contrast Media*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mammography / methods*
  • Radiographic Image Enhancement / methods*
  • Sensitivity and Specificity

Substances

  • Contrast Media